Breast Augmentation (Implants) | Surgical Incisions and Pocket Placement Planes
Medically authored and verified by Verified by Dr. Vishal Purohit, MBBS, MS, MCh (Plastic Surgery) • RMC Reg. 28041/14185 • Oct 2026
Surgical Incisions and Pocket Placement PlanesWhat are the surgical incision options for breast augmentation, and which is best?
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What are the surgical incision options for breast augmentation, and which is best?
#The three primary incision options are inframammary (under the breast crease), periareolar (around the lower nipple border), and transaxillary (in the armpit).
The inframammary fold (IMF) incision is the gold standard used in over 85% of cases. It provides direct visualization for precise dual-plane dissection, lowest rates of capsular contracture, and zero dissection through the mammary gland or lactiferous ducts. The resulting 3.5 to 4 cm scar is completely hidden within the natural anatomical shadow beneath the breast.
Periareolar incisions are reserved for concurrent mild breast lifts, while transaxillary avoids breast scars but limits direct visual control.
Surgical Incisions and Pocket Placement PlanesWhat is the dual-plane pocket placement technique, and why is it preferred?
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What is the dual-plane pocket placement technique, and why is it preferred?
#Dual-plane pocket placement positions the upper portion of the implant beneath the pectoralis major muscle, while the lower portion sits directly beneath the breast glandular tissue.
This technique combines the best benefits of submuscular and subglandular placement. The muscle completely covers the upper pole, preventing visible implant edges, rippling, and thinning of upper-chest skin. Meanwhile, releasing the lower pectoral origin allows the implant to expand the lower pole freely, preventing animation deformity when the patient flexes her chest.
Dual-plane placement significantly lowers capsular contracture rates and creates the most natural soft-tissue drape.